This morning, we reported Vision Vancouver mayoral nomination candidates Gregor Robertson and Raymond Louie have signed-up around 5,500 and between 4,000 and 4,500 members respectively. Now, The Vancouver Sun's Frances Bula is reporting Louie campaign manager Neil Monckton has confirmed "Raymond had 4,500-5,000 supporters, which is comprised of new members plus their estimate of how many supporters they have among the pre-existing 2,000 members." Meanwhile, Robertson campaign spokesperson Brad Zubyk told Ms. Bula "there are at least 5,5000 new members" listed on his candidate's spreadhseat. And what about Messrs. Robertson and Louie's competitor Allan De Genova? Well, our understanding is the De Genova campaign is claiming 4,000 sign-ups.

The Vision Vancouver mayoral nomination membership drive may be over. But it didn't come off without a hitch. On April 29, provincial New Democrat president Jeff Fox notified the civic association that many of his members were "concerned that BC NDP membership lists have either directly or indirectly found their way into the hands of the Vision campaign." The reason: a number of them have "called our office to advise that they have been contacted by phone by one of the candidate campaigns for Vision Vancouver." The letter doesn't name the campaign. But Mr. Fox goes onto to ask Vision Vancouver to "advise candidates and their campaigns that under no circumstances should they avail themselves of lists that are know to be or arising from current or past membership lists of the BC NDP." The following is a complete copy of that letter.

April 29, 2008

Vision Vancouver
Carolyn Askew, President
Mike Magee, President
PO Box 4635, Station Main,
Vancouver BC V6B 4A

Dear Carolyn and Mike,

Recently many of our members have called our office to advise that they have been contacted by phone by one of the candidate campaigns for Vision Vancouver. These calls have solicited support as well as a request for donations. The members were concerned that BC NDP membership lists have either directly or indirectly found their way into the hands of the Vision campaign. In one instance when a member asked how their name and number had been obtained, the caller offered up the explanation that the individual must be a member of the BC NDP. In another instance, a constituency executive discovered that every member of the constituency executive had been called, despite the fact that one of the newer members does not belong to any other like-minded organizations in the lower mainland.

As you can appreciate the issue of list-sharing and protection of privacy of our membership lists is of great concern to our members. To help alleviate some of this concern we would ask if Vision Vancouver could help with the following

* Notify candidates and their campaigns of the proper procedure for establishing list-share policies
* Advise candidates and their campaigns that under no circumstances should they avail themselves of lists that are know to be or arising from current or past membership lists of the BC NDP.

As you know the BC NDP has developed very specific policies with respect to list-sharing as outlined below:

Under no circumstances may constituency associations or federal riding associations provide member or supporter information directly to NDP members running for local office or to an organization that is not affiliated with the NDP. Members or constituency or riding associations providing such information directly would be in violation of party Policy and may unwittingly violate statutory provisions or regulations.

We believe that it is not helpful to either the Party or Vision Vancouver if BC NDP members that that the protcols that dictate the proper use and protection of membership lists are not being adhered to. Any assistance you could provide in helping to deliver this message would be most appreciated.

Sincerely,

Jeff Fox
President
BC NDP

Last week, The Vancouver Sun's Frances Bula reported Vision Vancouver has signed-up "somewhere between 10,000 and 12,000" new members. But how are those members distributed amongst the three mayoral nomination campaigns? Well, the most reliable numbers we've heard put Gregor Robertson at around 5,500 sign-ups and Raymond Louie somewhere between 4,000 and 4,500. We haven't heard anything concerning Allan De Genova sign-ups. Although Ms. Bula earlier wrote Mr. De Genova's campaign wasn't among those who seemed "happiest these days about numbers."

Earlier this month, Coalition of Progressive Electors school trustee Sharon Gregson announced she would be joining Vision Vancouver. And she's not the only coalition member switching sides. Tomorrow, it's our understanding West End Residents Association Aaron Jasper will also be signing-up with Vision Vancouver - and endorsing mayoral nomination candidate Gregor Robertson. Mr. Jasper is also chair of the Save St. Paul's Hospital Coalition.

Earlier, The Vancouver Sun's Frances Bula reported all of the Non-Partisan Association's "current council candidates are said to be running again" - "except for possibly B.C. Lee." Indeed, in an interview with Public Eye, Mr. Lee confirmed he hasn't yet submitted his council nomination papers - which are due on May 8. And he's deciding this weekend whether he'll actually hand them in. "It's totally my personal life," he explained. "Some decisions can be easier made in the more micro view. But when you look at your life at a more macro perspective, there are more elements to think of."

Vancouver councillor Raymond Louie has been a national representative for the Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union of Canada. Which has some wondering what aid, if any, the union might be lending to Mr. Louie's bid for the Vision Vancouver mayoral nomination. Asked whether organization work for his campaign was taking place at the labour organization's western region office, Mr. Louie responded, "I don't know where all my different volunteers are. They're all over the place. But there may be some effort coming out of there. I don't know. The best person to talk to in terms of allocation of resources and where they come from is Neil Moncton." So we did. But this is what Mr. Moncton, Mr. Louie's campaign manager, had to say: "I can't talk about our internal workings, Sean. CEP is certainly supporting Raymond. And (the union's administrative vice president) Don Boucher is endorsing Raymond." The union hasn't yet returned a phone call from Public Eye.

Look who's endorsing Vision Vancouver mayoral candidate Gregor Robertson. Why it's Canadian Union of Public Employees Local 15 president Paul Faoro. Funny that. Isn't Raymond Louie supposed to be the labour movement's candidate? The following is an advanced copy of the news release announcing that endorsement.

MEDIA RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 25, 2008

FOR IMMEDIATE DISTRIBUTION

CUPE LOCAL 15 PRESIDENT ENDORSES ROBERTSON FOR MAYOR

VANCOUVER - Paul Faoro, President of the Canadian Union of Public Employees’ Local 15 today endorsed Gregor Robertson for Mayor. CUPE 15 represents 5500 members working for seventeen employers in our city including the City of Vancouver, Langara College, Vancouver School Board, Emily Carr Institute, Vancouver Park Board, Vancouver Coastal Health, and the Vancouver Art Gallery.

“Living in Vancouver Fairview I have had the privilege of having Gregor represent my community as our MLA and I have seen first hand his ability to represent his constituents. I am convinced that he is exactly what we need to get our city back on track.”

Faoro says our city has been severely damaged by the current administration at City Hall and change must occur.

“With Gregor as the Vision Vancouver mayoralty candidate our city has the best opportunity to move forward to becoming a city that is caring, with strong public services, vibrant parks, sustainable and safe for everyone”

- 30 -

Earlier, we reported on Gowling Lafleur Henderson LLP partner David Chesman's involvement with Vision Vancouver mayoral candidate Allan De Genova's campaign. And that involvement may be of interest to the civic association's union sympathizing members. In an interview with Public Eye, Compass Group Canada Ltd. vice-president and general counsel Leslie White confirmed Mr. Chesman has "done quite a bit of work for us on the labour union stuff...for several years at least." Of course, Compass is the same company that was awarded controversial housekeeping and food services privatization contracts by the Provincial Health Services Authority and the Vancouver Island Health Authority in 2003 and 2004 respectively. Mr. Chesman didn't return a phone call placed by Public Eye.

When last we spoke with Lynne Henderson, she was working as then federal Liberal parliamentarian David Anderson's special assistant. But now we hear she may be making her own bid for elected office. In an interview with Public Eye, Ms. Henderson confirmed she's considering running for Victoria city council. And will she make a decision about the matter? "Probably in the next few weeks. I want to see how much support is out there."

In January, the mayor's community relations manager Anna Lucarino stated Sam Sullivan's office had received so "many inquiries as to how to purchase membership, contribute financially or become a volunteer to help support" the Non-Partisan Association leader, that it was necessary for her to send a mass email directing voters to his recently-launched website. But, according to a freedom of information request filed by Canadian Union of Public Employees Local 15, the mayor's office received no such inquiries via e-mail or snail mail between Jan. 1, 2008, and Jan. 31, 2008.

"On the surface it seems to be a misuse of that system," said union president Paul Faoro, referring to the fact the message was sent using a taxpayer-funded email address. "That's extremely troubling. And I think Mayor Sullivan needs to be accountable" now that it appears there were no written inquiries about how to get involved with the mayor's re-election campaign.

Asked for comment, the mayor's communication director David Hurford said, "Inquiries come in many forms. They come in a variety of different ways. They come largely from phone calls" - which wouldn't have been captured by the union's request.

Last month, Coalition of Progressive Electors members celebrated the fortieth anniversary of their party - along with Vision Vancouverites such as George Chow and Gregor Robertson. But opinion was split as to whether Messrs. Chow and Robertson's attendance at that anniversary was a cause for celebration. Responding to one such enthusiastic email, party secretary Tim Louis wrote, "Let's not forget that Heather Deal" - who was invited but couldn't make the event "and George Chow represent the party that stole money from COPE and to this day have refused to repay it." That accusation is a reference to the fact the coalition accumulated a substantial debt during the 2002 campaign - which resulted in the election of the four politicians who would go on to establish Vision Vancouver. As a result, Mr. Louis warned, "Let's not be too effervescent in our effusive gushing at their willingness to attend our events." The following is an edited copy of the aforementioned email.

From: Rachel Marcuse
Sent: March 29, 2008 11:13 AM
To: COPE Exec and Staff
Subject: thanks....

...for the great night last night, everyone! We had over 300 people throughout the night.

We'll be reconciling all the money on Monday, so please let me know if you have any expenses before then. (If you can't get me the physical receipts by Monday, that's cool, please just email me the amounts so I can account for everything.)

Good job, us!

Rachel

Rachel Marcuse

***

From: Donalda
Sent: Saturday, March 29, 2008 11:38 AM
To: 'Rachel Marcuse'; 'COPE Exec and Staff'
Subject: RE: thanks....

You all did great – it was wonderful.

Thanks for all your work on this,

Donalda

***

From: loretta is always
Sent: March 30, 2008 10:00 AM
To: 'Donalda'; 'Rachel Marcuse'; 'COPE Exec and Staff'
Subject: RE: thanks....

Just to let U know that Heather Deal called me to let me know she was out of town and unable to attend this event. She appreciated my invite.

Loretta

***

-----Original Message-----
From: Donalda
Sent: March 30, 2008 10:41 AM
To: 'loretta is always'; 'Rachel Marcuse'; 'COPE Exec and Staff'
Subject: RE: thanks....

Oh – great – too bad we didn’t hear ahead of time and could have announced that.

George Chow did show up, which was really nice, as did Gregor.

***

From: Tim Louis
Sent: Tuesday, April 01, 2008 8:04 PM
To: 'Donalda'; 'loretta is always'; 'Rachel Marcuse'; 'COPE Exec and Staff'
Subject: RE: thanks....

Hello folks,

Let's not forget that Heather Deal and George Chow represent the party that stole money from COPE and to this day have refused to repay it. Let's not be too effervescent in our effusive gushing at their willingness to attend our events.

Tim

Tim Louis
Tim Louis and Company

***

-----Original Message-----
From: loretta is always
Sent: April 1, 2008 8:18 PM
To: 'Tim Louis'; 'Donalda'; 'Rachel Marcuse'; 'COPE Exec and Staff'
Subject: RE: thanks....

Yes there is the sad history that took place at the Council level, and I have my own history in working well with both of these electeds from my position at park board.

Loretta

***

From: Tim Louis
Sent: Tuesday, April 01, 2008 8:35 PM
To: 'loretta is always'; 'Donalda'; 'Rachel Marcuse'; 'COPE Exec and Staff'
Subject: RE: thanks....

Loretta,

They did not steal the money from the Council caucus. They stole the money from OUR party. That's the party called COPE which belongs just as much to you as a Park Board Commissioner as it does to all of the COPE membership. The money was taken from COPE.

'The sad history that took place at the Council level' is not the point I was making. However, if you do want to discuss the history at Council, I would expect that even Ellen would confirm that on issue after issue they voted in a coalition with the NPA to block COPE policy.

Tim


Tim Louis
Tim Louis and Company

***

-----Original Message-----
From: loretta is always
Sent: April 1, 2008 8:50 PM
To: 'Tim Louis'; 'Donalda'; 'Rachel Marcuse'; 'COPE Exec and Staff'
Subject: RE: thanks....

My point is that the unhealthy circumstances that occured at the council level left park board and school board dealing with the fall out. Through all this turmoil, my focus has been to maintain a positive attitude. My experience has been that it takes more energy to be negative and I need all my energy to focus on my work on park board.
Loretta

***

-----Original Message-----
From: Tim Louis
Sent: April 2, 2008 5:55 PM
To: 'loretta is always'; 'Donalda'; 'Rachel Marcuse'; 'COPE Exec and Staff'
Subject: RE: thanks....

Loretta,

The unhealthy circumstances that occurred were solely the result of elected COPE officials forming a coalition with the NPA to defeat key COPE policy - which they did at City Hall. I am just as disappointed about the negative impact this had as you are. The negative impact was on all of us at the Council, School Board and Park Board level. We were all negatively affected.

Tim

Tim Louis
Tim Louis and Company

Italian social service agency director Rocco DiTrolio is signing-up Vision Vancouver members on behalf of mayoral nomination candidate Allan De Genova. In an interview with Public Eye, Mr. DiTrolio, who made an failed bid in 2006 to be the first Canadian elected to the Italian Parliament as the representative for North and Central America, confirmed his involvement with the De Genova campaign. "He's a very pleasant man," he explained. "I admire his positivity, how much he's done for the parks and across Vancouver. And he's a very inspiring man - full of energy. He speaks sincerely - not to mention that he has an Italian background." But, he added with a laugh, "that's not the reason why I support him." In 1997, Mr. DiTrolio also unsuccessfully ran for the New Democrat nomination in Vancouver East against Libby Davies.

Representatives from Vision Vancouver's three mayoral nomination campaigns met for the first time this morning with members of the civic association's executive, Public Eye has learned. Those in attendance included Allan De Genova's legal agent David Chesman, Gregor Robertson's spokesman Brad Zubyk and former provincial New Democrat deputy minister Douglas MacArthur - a member of Raymond Louie's campaign administration committee. Executive members at the meeting included Carolyn Askew, Mike Magee and Denise Taschereau.

Earlier, 24 hours' Irwin Loy reported Vancouver taxpayers would be spending $2,260 to send Non-Partisan Association city councillor Elizabeth Ball to the 2008 Juno Awards in Calgary. And what did she learned from that trip, you may wonder? In an interview with Public Eye, Ms. Ball stated, "It was a tremendous opportunity to see the effects the Junos have on the city. And, obviously, from being there you could see that it is a wonderful opportunity for a city from every aspect that you could possibly imagine. It engaged the city at every level you can imagine - from little children all the way through every business was engaged. The taxi drivers were passionate about it - the people we met in the street. It was absolutely wonderful. And, of course, it was a weekend of work as we took in the backstage tours to examine all the venues which, for me, was the very interesting part of it."

"CTV was very generous in taking us backstage to all of the venues and giving us unparalleled access to seeing exactly how they produce all the major events - which, of course, is incredibly complicated - and allowing us the ability to ask any question we wanted," she continued. "They took us to every single venue in a major tour that allowed us to really see how important it is to make our venues top notch and really make them available and how important traffic access is and how important it is for all aspects of the community to be working together."

And how is she going to be using those experiences to assist Vancouver in preparing to host the 2009 Juno Awards? "I am working with the steering committee and I will be giving the steering committee my notes and we had staff there," she responded. "The wonderful part of it is no one person could cover everything. So it was wonderful because the province was there - which was wonderful. The minister was there - Stan Hagen. Jane Milner - his ADM - was there. And we all were embracing very aspects of it and getting together and exchanging notes...And we're looking forward to having a debrief and getting together. So, of course, I'll be giving council not only my version but being able to share other people's ideas as well."

Over the weekend, Canwest News Service's Richard Warnica reported "Allan de Genova, who is running for the left-leaning Vision Vancouver party's mayoral nomination, gave $900" to the provincial Liberals in 2007 - "a move that likely won't sit well with his fellow party member and mayoral rival, NDP MLA Gregor Robertson." But that wasn't the first time Mr. De Genova contributed to the province's governing party since 2005. According to Elections British Columbia filings, he also made a $300 contribution in 2006. By comparison, Mr. Robertson donated $4,184.38 over the same period to the New Democrats. Raymond Louie, who is also running for the Vision Vancouver mayoral nomination, didn't make contributions to either party. The following is a complete list of Mr. Robertson's contributions.

Donations by Gregor Robertson to the New Democrats

2005 $2,000
2006 $410.38
2007 $1,774.00

Controversial city clerk Syd Baxter is retiring. But that doesn't mean he won't still be working for Vancouver taxpayers. In an email sent to staff yesterday, Mr. Baxter writes "I had originally thought that I would retire from the City in the usual way with a normal last day of work. In discussion with the City Manager she asked me to instead consider transitioning to retirement by potentially reducing my work week and assisting with some of the many corporate projects that are currently underway or being considered. I have agreed to that opportunity." Mr. Baxter made headlines last year when he accused then British Columbia Federation of Labour executive director Geoff Meggs of "engineering" a strike by civic workers. The following is a complete copy of the aforementioned email.

From: Baxter, Syd
Sent: Tuesday, April 01, 2008 7:50 PM
Subject: Organizational Changes

Hello:

It is with very mixed emotions that I let you know that I have decided to begin my transition to retirement from the City. If that seems like an odd way to describe this, let me explain!

If find it hard to admit that I am in my fortieth year in public service. I had originally thought that I would retire from the City in the usual way with a normal last day of work. In discussion with the City Manager she asked me to instead consider transitioning to retirement by potentially reducing my work week and assisting with some of the many corporate projects that are currently underway or being considered. I have agreed to that opportunity.

The result of this is decision is that I will relinquish the position of City Clerk on April 30, 2008 and commence working on corporate projects. Marg Coulson will act in the role of City Clerk until a permanent appointment is made, most likely not until after the municipal election.

The City is well served by the people who work here and in particular you, the staff and management of the City Clerk’s Department. It has been a particular honour to work with such a group of loyal and dedicated public servants. I appreciate all the personal support you have given to me. The City is very well served; you are a credit to the public sector.

While you will continue to see me around after April 30, it will be in a different role. I know you will give Marg all your support at a very busy time. I wish you all well.

Syd

Vision Vancouver mayoral candidate Allan De Genova seems to be sparing no expense on hiring workers for his campaign. According to a posting on the Vancouver Skateboard Coalition's Website, "Al’s campaign is offering $15/hour to those who work to sign up memberships." By comparison, a craigslist advertisement placed earlier this month states competitor Gregor Robertson is paying $12 per hour to his outreach campaigners. The following is a complete copy of that earlier advertisement.

"Do we continue to have a city government that runs the city using the current top down, divisive style? Or do we find a better way and elect a Mayor and Council who understand that solutions are found by engaging all citizens in meeting the challenges that we all share. A Mayor and Council who understand that government works for the people who elected it."
- Gregor Robertson, www.gregor08.com

Do you want real change for Vancouver in 2008?

If you are outgoing, articulate, and believe that Gregor Robertson will bring real change to the city of Vancouver we want you to be part of our team.

Outreach Campaigners are paid $12 /hour and facilitate Vancouver citizens to join Vision Vancouver and support Gregor Robertson in his bid for the mayoral nomination in 2008.

We work in teams, help coordinate and train any drop-in volunteers, with the goal to sign up as many members for Vision Vancouver as possible.

The schedule is very flexible.

Street Teams work in high foot-traffic areas around the city between 10:30 am and 6:00 pm, 7 days a week. Our Door to Door Teams work from 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm week nights.

If you would like to learn more about becoming a paid Outreach Campaigner for Gregor, contact: info@publicengagement.ca

For Volunteers:
If you are interested in being part of the excitement of this campaign but are only available a few hours a week, we would love to have you join us as a volunteer! Simply sign up at www.gregor08.com/volunteer, check the box "door-to-door canvasser" and we'll contact you on how you can get involved for Vision Vancouver and Gregor Robertson.

Together we can make a difference!

* Location: Vancouver
* Compensation: $12 / hour
* Principals only. Recruiters, please don't contact this job poster.
* Please, no phone calls about this job!
* Please do not contact job poster about other services, products or commercial interests.

Business in Vancouver owner Peter Ladner has served as a local elected official since 2002. But, according to his latest campaign announcement, Mr. Ladner is a lot more than just a city councillor. He's a "respected" city councillor. Of course, that adjective may indeed be true in some quarters. But isn't it a passingly odd for Mr. Ladner's campaign to be describing their candidate in this manner - a task customarily left to third party validators? The following is a complete copy of that media advisory.

LADNER FOR MAYOR CAMPAIGN

MEDIA ADVISORY

Thursday May 27, 2008

NPA Mayoral hopeful Peter Ladner will deliver a keynote address this morning focusing on the political challenges of tackling climate change in the City.

Councillor Ladner will deliver the opening address to delegates attending the:

“GETTING TO CARBON NEUTRAL” WORKSHOP & TRADESHOW

8:30 a.m.
Today (Thursday March 27)

Empire Landmark Hotel & Conference Centre
1400 Robson St., Vancouver

The respected Vancouver City Councillor and owner of Business in Vancouver will comment on the City’s progress in attempting to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and he will outline a number of ideas for stepping up efforts to meet the climate change challenge at the civic and regional level.

Vision Vancouver's mayoral nomination candidates seem to agree spending limits for their campaigns should, at the very least, be discussed. But how much is an appropriate ceiling? Raymond Louie says $50,000. But, during the Non-Partisan Association's 2005 mayoral nomination contest, former provincial cabinet Christy Clark was rumoured to have spent between $100,000 and $150,000.

Earlier, we reported Vision Vancouver mayoral nomination candidates Raymond Louie and Gregor Robertson have both backed a proposal to put spending limits on their campaigns. And what does their competitior Allan De Genova have to say about the matter? "We agree that the issue needs to be looked at," said Mr. De Genova's campaign manager Ian Baillie. "It's not that we're opposed to it. But these sort of things should be sorted out" by a committee composed of Vision Vancouver executives and representatives from the three mayoral nomination campaigns.

Earlier today, Raymond Louie announced his support for a proposal to limit Vision Vancouver mayoral nomination campaign expenditures - suggesting a $50,000 ceiling. Meanwhile, in a subsequent interview with Public Eye, competitor Gregor Robertson also said he thinks "it would be a good step" to introduce such a ceiling - "both as a party and to put pressure on other parties to do the same." But Mr. Robertson declined to say what he thinks that limit should be, stating, "I don't have a number fixed in mind. I would just be speculating. I think it's something the executive should look at in detail and factor in the length of the campaign and the competitiveness. It's going to be a tight race. And that's got to be up to the executive to figure out what the best number is. It isn't what the candidates think. It's what the membership is comnfortable with - represented by the executive."

Mr. Robertson, who said he didn't know how his campaign would be spending on the race, also expressed cautious support to have nomination polling stations setup across the city. "It's an interesting idea worth researching further," he said. "As long as there's systems in place to make it all accountable, the more people enabled to vote the better.

Former Canadian Film and Television Production Association British Columbia Producers' Branch external relations and operations vice-president Leanore Copeland is being talked up as a possible Non-Partisan Association council candidate. But, when asked by Public Eye whether she was considering a run, Ms. Copeland said, "I can't comment on that right now. I hate giving no comments. But I can't comment." Nor would she comment on those promoting her as a possible provincial Liberal candidate in Vancouver-Fairview. Although she did say she would be "happy to comment" in the next "couple weeks." Ms. Copeland is presently a partner with mc2 Strategic Consulting. She ran for the federal Liberals in New Westminster-Burnaby during the 1993 election, losing to Reform parliamentarian Paul Forseth

Yesterday, Vision Vancouver council hopeful Geoff Meggs called on the civic association to put a spending limit on its mayoral nomination candidates. And one of those candidates now says he has "no issues with that." Speaking with Public Eye this morning, Raymond Louie stated, "If the other candidates would agree to a limit, I'd be okay with that. I haven't put enough thought into it to know exactly what the amount would be. Certainly, $50,000 ought to do it. I don't think anything beyond that is really necessary. I don't expect to exceed that." Indeed, Mr. Louie says he expects to raise and spend between $20,000 to $30,000 for his campaign. Mr. Louie added he's also supportive of Mr. Meggs proposal to have allow Vision Vancouver members to vote in polling stations across the city. "Certainly it would increase access to voting. Logistically, it would be a bit more complicated. But it would be an advantage to give our members an opportunity to vote closer to where they live."

Vision Vancouver doesn't presently have a spending limit for its mayoral nomination campaign. But council nomination candidate Geoff Meggs thinks there should be. In an interview with Public Eye, Mr. Meggs said, "I think it's logical for Vision to have spending limits. We've advocated that for the city-at-large. And I think it makes sense in this case too because there's only so many dollars available for the democratic process. And if they get consumed in an all-out battle at one level, they may not be available for the election - which is where we would like to see it. And I'm worried as well about the capacity for people to participate when the costs get too high. So I think spending limits would be good. And it's not too late to have them."

"I think it's too late to say who you can take money from because people have already been accepting contributions based on the system we have in the city - which is not what Vision wanted," he continued. "But I think it's certainly not too late to (have limits) for the council race. Because, as far as I know, the only formally declared people are myself and Kerry Jang. And I don't think Kerry would have any problem with it. I can't speak for him. But I wouldn't have any problem with a reasonable limit."

Leaving aside such mechanical questions, Mr. Meggs then added the larger and "critical question for the membership is who's best to be able to lead the entire organization forward into the main election. And there's going to be two chances to put the Vision team together - one is the mayoralty nomination and the second is the council one. But there's a lot of questions in front of the whole organization which is growing by the day. And the more opportunity the members have to see and hear from all the candidates the better I think. Because we do want to make sure the organization stays as united as possible going forward.

Earlier today, Mr. Meggs also suggested the civic party "should allow its members to vote in polling stations across the city when they select Vision’s mayoralty candidate."

Earlier, we reported former Non-Partisan Association supporter D.J. Lawrence would be backing Allan De Genova's Vision Vancouver mayoral nomination bid - but not the civic association itself. Asked what he thought about those who are taking out party memberships simply to support his candidacy, Mr. De Genova said, "I guess my other opponents are doing the same thing. They're out to get memberships to get themselves in first. I have to say though the people I am signing-up right now Sean - all the people I'm signing-up - not only are they just signing-up to come out to support me but they are also participating in the party and following me lead. I've always done that with the NPA for 15 years and I will continue to do this for Vision for all the people I sign-up."

Mr. De Genova also added he didn't know Mr. Lawrence. And "I guess he doesn't know the rest of the party yet. But, by the time I'm in, and this guy is working with me he'll know their cousins, uncles, mothers and sisters. But the time I'm finished, they'll all be over at my house having pasta."

Former Non-Partisan Association supporter and federal Conservative constituency association president D.J. Lawrence is urging his friends to take out Vision Vancouver memberships in support of Allan De Genova mayoral nomination bid. In an email sent yesterday, Mr. Lawrence writes, "rest assured, I DO NOT SUPPORT THE VISION SLATE, just Al, and a select couple of NPA and Vision candidates...I know Al reasonably well, I have associates that have worked with him over the long term both in and outside of politics (and still think well of him!), and I know he has the support of many people whose opinion I respect including many in senior positions with Vancouver Police." The following is an edited copy of that email.

From: "DJ Lawrence"
Date: March 17, 2008 11:39:23 PM PDT (CA)
To: "DJ Lawrence"
Subject: Allan De Genova campaign launch

Dear Friends,

I know, nobody does politics, but before you delete this, consider:

how the mayor decided against his own experts’ advice to hire 63 Police Officers, hired 17, and expected us to believe the letter from the federal government saying they couldn’t fund his request for the remainder somehow sat on his fax machine from 9 AM until the council meeting that night!

how the NPA lowered their membership cost from $25 to $20 (big spenders!) while all other parties manage to get by on $10 or less, but this isn’t really to keep out the “east side” vote…

Yes, that thumping sound is the sound of anyone who knows me realizing I’m supporting a “left of center” candidate for once in my life! Al doesn’t really fit any profile, he is honest, hard working, compassionate, pragmatic, not dogmatic, and has a variety of great ideas from across the political spectrum. He can work with anyone, for the good of our city. I don’t know about you, but I’m fed up with the likes of Sam, and with parties that wouldn’t know the common person if we kicked them in the head! But rest assured, I DO NOT SUPPORT THE VISION SLATE, just Al, and a select couple of NPA and Vision candidates which will give us the balance we need to solve the major issues that face us, and provide real leadership going into 2010 instead of the laughing stock Sam or Gregor would provide us.

You have the opportunity to help choose who will run for the parties competing in this November’s city elections. I hope you will consider joining whatever of the civic parties you may support, and exercising your right to help choose good candidates. My regrets to Peter Ladner, a fine man who would also make a fine mayor, I just can’t get behind his party right now…

I am supporting Al De Genova in his bid to be nominated at the mayoralty candidate for the Vision Vancouver party. I know Al reasonably well, I have associates that have worked with him over the long term both in and outside of politics (and still think well of him!), and I know he has the support of many people whose opinion I respect including many in senior positions with Vancouver Police.

I hope you will come out to Al’s campaign launch, and that you will consider taking out a membership in order to vote for Al as the Vision Vancouver mayoralty candidate. The deadline to become a member has not been announced yet, but is expected to be the end of April.

Yours truly,

DJ Lawrence

Former Non-Partisan Association outreach chair Peter Ormesher has launched a membership drive as part of his to win the civic party's mayoral nomination. In an email sent to friends and supporters, Mr. Ormesher writes he has "left the board of the NPA to run against Sam Sullivan (and now Peter Ladner for the NPA nomination, because I have seen what it is like behind closed doors, behind the scenes. You don't want to know." Nevertheless, a paragraph later, Mr. Ormesher tells them, stating "from behind the scenes, you recognize that (Mayor Sullivan) is not a strong and capable leader." He then goes on to urge his friends to become party members by April 22 so they can vote for him at the association's nomination meeting on June 8. The following is a complete copy of that email.

----- Forwarded message from peter@peterormesher.com -----
Date: Thu, 13 Mar 2008 16:36:41 -0700
From: peter@peterormesher.com
Reply-To: peter@peterormesher.com
Subject: Help Needed - Mayor's Job - City of Vancouver - Pass it On!

April 22nd is deadline

Dear Friends,

I so very seldom asked for help from my friends. I am happily the one asked to help others. But I hope you allow me this one exception. Besides helping me, I get to help you, even more.

We need a strong and competent Mayor in this City. We deserve one. I have just left the board of the NPA to run against Sam Sullivan (and now Peter Ladner) for the NPA nomination, because I have seen what it is like behind closed doors, behind the scenes. You don't want to know.

The NPA is a great group of dedicated people, but they are leaderless. As Chair of Outreach, I heard too often that Sam Sullivan has been a disappointment to the public that elected him. From behind the scenes, you recognize that he is not a strong and capable leader. He has failed to convince Peter Ladner and he has failed to fool the public. We deserve something better, with more experience at turning our City around. Sam's priorities, his way of doing things, and his lack of understanding of how the real world works, is wasting our time and our money. Traffic and our roads are getting worse, housing is not affordable, taxes are rocketing up, crime is on the rise (while he says it is getting better), and all that focussed effort on giving free drugs to drug addicts, and time wasted explaining EcoDensity, was a waste of time and focus. When is enough, enough?

I have made the difficult decision to place my my capabilities and experience before the members of the NPA, and then, if successful, the people of Vancouver, as its Mayoral candidate,for one of the most important elections of our time. In doing so, I am standing up to Sam, and bucking what some say are overwhelming odds. But Decision Vancouver 2008 is just too important to worry about the job ahead to secure the nomination. That is why I am writing you.

To do this, I need you to take action. It will not take much, but we must act quickly to be able to overcome the overwhelming political machine and financial resources that Sam has built.

I believe that nothing is impossible, if we have courage. We have a plan, and you can see that you are the key part of it:

1) pass this email to your friends, colleagues and family that care about Vancouver and trust your judgement about people. The more the better, so thank you. It hope it feels good.

2) print out the NPA membership form attached, and with your friends and associates, JOIN the NPA before April 22. Then come vote for me at a nomination meeting on June 8th. It is only $20 to join (cheque or credit card only), but it may just be the best investment in your community that you could ever make. Email me or call 604 764 0065 with questions. We must get the forms in by April 22, so let me know if you need help.

3) keep an eye on http://retiresam.com. if you wish to get involved, I have included a small sign that can be printed and posted anywhere you can. We can all subscribe for free, and then keep up to date on where this race is going. Also, if you wish to volunteer, let me know. We will be having a few social gatherings, to connect one another.In the next days I will be putting up my website www.peterormesher.com and I will send you a brief background on me.

Many people have said over the course of years "Why can we not have more capable and competent people in politics?". Already, there are some good people, but the biggest reason is that WE must do something to give them a chance. They are unknown, and to the established politicians, not welcome unless you give them the chance. This is what I seek.

Will you give me that chance?

If so, I will work my hardest and use all my leadership experience and capabilities to not disappoint you. To get this City back on track. Like another has not.

Thank you and welcome to Decision Vancouver 2008.

Warmest regards,

Peter Ormesher

Vision Vancouver executive hasn't yet scheduled their nomination meeting. But, last night, they referred the matter to the civic association's governance committee chaired by Carolyn Askew. In addition, the executive also approved a stringent set of nomination campaign financial disclosure rules, a candidate agreement and questionaire and conflict of interest guidelines.

Vision Vancouver council candidate and former British Columbia Federation of Labour executive director Geoff Meggs is launching his campaign with a comparatively pricey fundraiser featuring former provincial New Democrat interim leader Joy MacPhail. According to an email promoting the launch, tickets to the event - which is scheduled for March 27 - will cost $125. The following is a complete copy.

Help Elect GEOFF MEGGS to Vancouver City Council

Joy McPhail invites you to join her to celebrate the official launch of the campaign to elect Geoff Meggs to city council on the Vision Vancouver team.

Thursday, March 27th.
8pm - 11pm
2852 West 1st Avenue

Geoff is campaigning to win a Vision Vancouver nomination for city council. Join us to help elect someone for the Vision Vancouver team with the experience, commitment and ideas to put our great city back on track.

Tickets $125
Ticket Hotline 605.764.5988
Tickets by email @ electgeoffmeggs@gmail.com

Is councillor Raymond Louie about to announce he's running for Vision Vancouver's mayoral nomination? Well, it certainly looks that way. Because Public Eye has learned Mr. Louie has booked Chinatown's Jade Dynasty Restaurant for an event this coming Sunday at 2:30. Earlier, The Vancouver Sun's Frances Bula reported Mr. Louie had registered the domain name www.raymondlouieformayor.ca. And his supporters have setup a Facebook group backing the councillor's prospective bid.

Earlier, we reported former federal Liberal British Columbia president Billy Cunningham is working on Allan De Genova's Vision Vancouver mayoral nomination campaign. But he's not the only Grit with a shoulder to the grindstone for the parks board member. In an interview with Public Eye, the party's British Columbia communications chair Ian Baillie confirmed he's also helping manage Mr. De Genova's campaign. "I'm happy to do it and thrilled to be part of the team. But it's a big team approached. And I'm working with Billy."

Allan De Genova may have torn up his Non-Partisan Association membership card. But the parks board member's Vision Vancouver mayoral nomination campaign seems to be looking to the right-leaning civic party for design inspiration. His brochure features reds, whites and blues - similar to those used by the association. And its front includes a text box topped by a distinctive swoosh - another design element used by the right-leaning civic party.

Former federal Liberal British Columbia president Bill Cunningham could soon be working for Vision Vancouver mayoral nomination candidate Allan De Genova. In an interview with Public Eye, Mr. Cunningham confirmed he has been "talking with Al and his campaign. And, although the parameters haven't necessarily been hammered out, I have agreed to help out the campaign in whatever capacity makes the most sense for them. Al's a great guy. And he's got a lot of great people and energetic supporters. And it seems like something I want to be a part of." Asked about rumours he might be paid up to $10,000 for his trouble, the Burnaby-Douglas Grit candidate chuckled and said, "It certainly would not be anything at that level."

Here's more evidence of cooperation between the Coalition of Progressive Electors and Vancouver's Green and Work Less parties: on March 7, the three civic associations will be hosting a joint fundraiser at the Cambrian Hall. Billed as an "interactive evening of live music, comedy, theatre, dance and surprise," revenue earned from Cabarnet Politique ticket sales will be split between the parties. The following is a complete copy of the invite to that event.

Cabaret Politique: An interactive evening of live music, comedy, theatre, dance and surprise.

Get your tickets fast! This event is a sure sellout. On March 7th we will have an event unlike any other event in the history of Vancouver politics. The Work Less Party, Civic Greens and COPE are organizing a cabaret for you.

Performers include:
Crucial Taunt
Toot a Lute
Maria in the Shower

Where: Cambrian Hall. 215 East 17th.
Cost: Sliding scale $15-$25
Dress code: "Cabaret" (interpret at will!)

Tickets are available in advance by contacting the Work Less Party at coordinator@worklessparty.org or COPE office at 604-255-0400. Tickets are also available at the door, but are sure to sell out fast!

Councillor Peter Ladner's putsch continues. As reported earlier by The Vancouver Sun's Frances Bula, Mr. Ladner is looking to open up the Non-Partisan Association's mayoral nomination process, in part, so he can run against Sam Sullivan for that job. And now his campaign has launched a membership drive to "support Peter." This, according to an email sent by his membership coordinator Lisa Newby. The following is a complete copy.

Date: Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:44:34 -0800
From: NPA Democracy
Subject: support for Peter Ladner needed
To: NPA Democracy

Peter Ladner's team needs your help. As you may know, the NPA board has changed its traditional practice of allowing the members to pick the best candidates in an open and democratic forum. The board has decided to protect all incumbent elected officials, including the Mayor, locking up their positions as NPA candidates in the next election, whereby those currently elected will automatically be on the ballot without having to go through a traditional nomination process against other interested candidates. This has been referred to by some as "the green light process". This is not fair nor democratic Peter is opposed to this essentially 'closed' process, and is appealing to the NPA Board to open up the nomination process for all interested candidates, be they currently elected or not.

To support Peter, he will need your vote at the NPA annual general meeting and at any subsequent nomination meeting. To vote, you will need to be a member of the NPA. To become a member of the NPA, you will need to:

* download a membership form from www.npavancouver.ca/pdf/npa-membership-form.pdf. , or we can have a form delivered to you via email, and if necessary, directly to your address;

* complete the form, including your signature and payment by cheque or credit card (cost is $20 for a one year membership, and $15 for youth and seniors) -- cash is not accepted and the referral information is not required; and

* fax the form to 604-661-9368 or scan the form and email it to peterladnercampaign@gmail.com .

Don’t forget to mark your calendars now for the NPA annual general meeting (to vote for an open nomination process):

NPA Annual General Meeting

Date: Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Venue: Heritage Hall (located at Main and 15th)
Time: TBA

To support Peter, it is critical that you attend the AGM and vote. In addition, you can support Peter by encouraging more people to join the NPA to vote for an open and democratic nomination meeting, Peter’s most immediate goal . I know Peter is extremely grateful for your support.

To be able to vote at the AGM and at any subsequent nomination meeting, all supports need to be signed and delivered to the addresses above no later than March 20th. For further information on the membership drive, you can reply to this email address (npademocracy@shaw.ca) or call me at 604-619-6951.

To subscribe to Peter’s newsletter or view information and opinions on current issues, visit his website at http://www.peterladner.ca/ .

Lisa Newby
Membership Coordinator
Peter Ladner Campaign

Businessman Peter Ormesher has resigned from the Non-Partisan Association's board of directors to make a bid for the party's mayoral nomination. At present, that nomination won't be put to a vote. Instead, like all of the civic party's incumbent candidates, Sam Sullivan will get the nomination if he can prove to the board he has support from the community and the association - as well as a fundraising plan. But, as reported by The Vancouver Sun's Frances Bula, councillor Peter Ladner is opposing that so-called greenlight process, in part, because he wants Mayor Sullivan's job. And, speaking first with Public Eye, Mr. Ormesher says that prompted him to put his name forward.

"I think a two-way race could be seen as a war," he said. "But a three-person race is actually a race with new ideas. And it could be quite exciting for people - and beneficial for the people of Vancouver."

Asked whether he has any concerns about Mayor Sullivan's leadership, Mr. Ormesher replied he was in favour of getting some "new ideas and new people" in the association - adding he didn't think it was "a good thing" that Finance Minister Carole Taylor couldn't find a "home" with the party when she was considering running for mayor of Vancouver.

Asked whether he would run for Vision Vancouver's mayoral nomination if the association doesn’t have a race, Mr. Ormesher said, "I think I should wait for what the party says before I speculate what I should do." But he wouldn't "rule it out," stating "I do know people at Vision. And I like what they could potentially be."

Mr. Ormesher told the association's board and caucus members of his decision in an email. The following is a complete copy.

***

-----Original Message-----
From: Peter Ormesher
Sent: Wednesday, February 13, 2008 4:27 PM
To: BC Lee; Carol Gibson; Don Lee; Elizabeth Ball; Heather Holden; Ian Robertson; Ken Denike; Kim Capri; Korina Houghton; Marty Zlotnik; Peter Ladner; Sam Sullivan; Shirley Wong; Suzanne Anton; Suzanne Anton 2
Subject: FW: letter to the board feb 12, 2008

Dear Sam and the rest of Caucus

As you know I have been working hard to support all of you in any way I can.

I have been thinking much about what next to do, and how I can best serve the people of this great city. I wish to run for the position of Mayor, as I have unique leadership and problem solving skills, that would mix well with the other experience and capability of this team.

I have written the board and copied the caucus. I have resigned from the board, as to remove the potential for any conflict.

I have enjoyed serving the NPA as a board member, and look forward to seeing what happens next.

With warm regards,

Peter Ormesher

To many people a job is a just a job. But, to some, it's an important part of their identity. And Sam Sullivan seems to be in the later category. After all, why else would his Facebook entry list his first name as "Mayor." Of course, we're not complaining. It's somewhat amusing to read feed stories such as "Mayor tagged himself in a photo" and "Mayor and Kim Capri are now friends." But what's going to happen if he loses the November election?

Earlier, when asked whether the Coalition of Progressive Electors would have more difficulty working with Vision Vancouver if Allan De Genova becomes the centrist civic party's mayoral candidate, recording secretary Tim Louis stated, "COPE could never ever put forward as its mayoral candidate, an NPA retread developer advocate who is no different then the current mayoral incumbent." And, in an interview with Public Eye, coalition external relations co-chair Ellen Woodsworth echoed that view.

Said Ms. Woodsworth, "I think it would be more difficult to reach an agreement in terms of a joint mayoral candidate - which is what I think we need to defeat Mayor Sam Sullivan. I think that's a big question. We'll see whether De Genova reaches out to us. So far, there hasn't been anything."

The former councillor also worried what impact Mr. De Genova's mayoral nomination bid would have on Vision Vancouver "I think, in order to win, he needs to sign-up a lot of friends. And I assume his friends will be Liberals. The nature of the party's going to change significantly," she added.

Speaking of Tim Louis, we hear talk he's working with former provincial New Democrat election candidate Alicia Barsallo to sell Coalition of Progressive Electors memberships and increase attendance at the civic party's upcoming annual general meeting. So what does Mr. Louis, the coalition's recording secretary, have to say about such rumours? "I work with everybody," he said in an interview with Public Eye. "COPE is a very broad coalition. I've got a lot of respect for Alicia. She's one of many, many people I'm always working with - people from many different points on the political spectrum - to keep the COPE tent as big as possible."

Earlier, Public Eye exclusively confirmed parks board member Allan De Genova would be seeking Vision Vancouver's mayoral nomination. And that news has some wondering what the Coalition of Progressive Electors thinks about a former Non-Partisan Association member making a bid to lead Vision's slate into the next election. Well, speaking for himself, coalition recording secretary Tim Louis stated, "When you subscribe to the view that I do that he who pays the piper calls the tune, it's always been my belief that Vision is, in fact, nothing other than another version - perhaps a prettier, younger version - of the NPA" - referring to the substantive donations Vision has received from the development industry. "And this is now being demonstrated by a number of the big names that are talking about or are running for the Vision Vancouver mayoral nomination" such as Allan De Genova.

So, if Mr. De Genova does win that nomination, would the coalition have more difficulty working with Vision? "That would be determined by the entire COPE membership," responded Mr. Louis. "I can only ever talk about my view - which is that COPE most definitely needs to run a COPE mayoral candidate. And COPE could never ever put forward as its mayoral candidate an NPA retread developer advocate who is no different then the current mayoral incumbent."

Independent parks board commissioner Allan De Genova has told Public Eye he’s going to announce he'll be seeking the Vision Vancouver mayoral nomination “in the very near future.” Mr. De Genova attended the civic party's recent annual general meeting. But, until now, the maverick politician has kept his options open - even expressing support for an independent mayoral bid by Finance Minister Carole Taylor. Indeed, in a December interview The Province's John Bermingham, Mr. De Genova stated, "I think somebody like Carole Taylor running as an independent mayor in Vancouver is exactly what we've needed for some time." But his hopes were dashed when Minister Taylor announced last month she wouldn't be making a bid for that office.

As some our readers know, there's been much talk about Non-Partisan Association councillor Peter Ladner's future in civic politics. For example, is he considering leaving the association and running as an independent or on another ticket? So here's the answer: "I don't know what I'm going to do in the next election yet - whether I'm even going to be in municipal politics. And lots of people have suggested lots of different things to do. And that's been suggested to me for sure." And what about a run for the mayoralty? "That's been suggested to me too," Mr. Ladner responded. And when will he be making a decision about all these suggestions? "Pretty soon - within the next couple weeks."

Contrary to columnist belief, Vancouver mayor Sam Sullivan must be more popular than ever. After all, according to an email sent out by his community relations manager Anna Lucarino, "over the past several weeks, our office has received many inquiries as to how to purchase memberships, financially contribute or become a volunteer to help support Mayor Sam Sullivan in this year's civic election. As noted in a recent memo from the City Clerk to all of Council, City resources are only to be used for matters directly related to civic business. Therefore, should you wish to learn more about Mayor Sullivan's election campaign or how to become involved, please direct your inquiries to his campaign via www.samsullivan.ca" - a re-election Website which was launched just last Thursday.